Pimples on Buttocks? Here Are the Possible Causes and Remedies

Pimples on the buttocks can make you uncomfortable when lying and sitting down. They might also  result in lower self-confidence, especially when wearing swimsuits. What are the different causes of pimples on buttocks, and are there quick ways to treat pimples on the buttocks? Find out here. 

Possible Pimples on Buttocks Causes

Butt pimples can happen due to buildup of excess oil and dead skin cells that clog pores. An underlying health condition might also trigger butt breakouts. Below are the possible causes of pimples on buttocks:

1. Clogged Pores

Pores in any area of ​​the body can become clogged and cause breakouts. Clogging can occur due to accumulated oil, dead skin cells, dirt, etc. The following may trigger pore clogging:

• Sitting for long periods
• Tight clothing
• Staying in wet or sweaty clothes
• Prolonged wearing of undergarments

2. Folliculitis

If you’re wondering about the causes of pimples on buttocks, consider acne due to folliculitis. 

The hair follicles in the butt area can suffer some form of inflammation, making them red and swollen (folliculitis). Often, irritated pores appear like pimples or bumps with a white tip. They can also be painful or itchy. Folliculitis doesn’t just cause pimples on the buttocks, but it can likewise cause breakouts anywhere on the body.

Your choice of clothing can contribute to the development of folliculitis. Tight clothes often cause friction on the skin, thereby irritating the pores and causing inflammation. The material of the clothes can also be a factor. Tight clothes made of nylon or polyester fabric can collect sweat, which, in turn, causes inflammation of the pores and acne. 

3. Keratosis Pilaris

Another on our list of possible pimples on buttocks causes is keratosis pilaris. 

Unlike the red, inflamed bumps when you have folliculitis, keratosis pilaris causes small, rough bumps on the buttocks. This dermatological condition occurs when there is a buildup of keratin around the pores. Keratin is a protein that creates a protective layer on the surface of the skin. However, when too much keratin accumulates, it causes papules.

There is no specific cause for keratosis pilaris. However, this disease can run in families and often flares up sharply in children, then subsides as the child grows. Although keratosis pilaris can cause annoying butt pimples, it’s usually not dangerous. 

4. Boils and Skin Abscess

If the “pimples’’ on your buttocks have a thin layer of skin over fluid, you might have a boil. If the breakouts are swollen and pus-filled, this could be a symptom of a skin abscess. Both conditions can occur anywhere in the body, and they usually result from infections. 

While boils are a superficial infection, a skin abscess usually runs deep. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of abscesses, but other bacteria, such as streptococcus or pseudomonas bacteria, can also cause it. Some fungi can also cause abscesses, but skin abscesses caused by fungal infections are rare.

5. Additional Pimples on Buttocks Causes

Is It Dangerous To Have Pimples on the Buttocks?

Besides the possible pimples on buttocks causes, let’s also talk about the possible complications. 

In most cases, butt pimples are not dangerous. However, when left untreated, they might worsen, bleed, or even result in infections. 

Visit your doctor if the breakouts do not get better or they become swollen, red, and painful. Never self-medicate (even with topical medicines) and certainly do not squeeze or pop acne. These practices can make butt acne worse.

How To Treat Pimples on the Buttocks at Home

Pimples on the buttocks, whether painful or not, might cause discomfort in daily activities. The good news is, the dermatologist will most likely send you home with some topical medicines, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These two help with mild to moderate acne, and while you can easily purchase them over-the-counter, don’t forget to consult a doctor first before using them. 

Prevention

The following practices help reduce the risk of butt breakouts:

1. Shower Right After Exercise

After exercising,  take a shower to remove sweat, excess oil, and dirt on your skin. This helps unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts. Wearing sweaty workout clothes also increases your risk of developing pimples on your buttocks. So, even if you don’t have time to shower, you should also change into clean, dry clothes.

2. Moisturize

Using a moisturizer is part and parcel of an effective skincare routine. If you’re worried about lotions making your butt pimples worse, consider talking to a dermatologist about which moisturizer to use. 

3. Exfoliate

Exfoliating is an important step in clearing pores. Ask your dermatologist about exfoliating products containing glycolic acid . Reports say this is a great ingredient for treating butt pimples, thanks to its ability to keep pores open. This substance might also help lighten the dark spots on the skin left by acne.

4. Carefully Choose Your Clothes

Wear light, breathable clothes and undergarments.  Loose clothing also limits friction on the skin that triggers breakouts on the buttocks.

5. Avoid Foods That Cause Acne

Limit your intake of fatty, sugary, and spicy foods. Additionally, maintain a healthy diet, add lots of green vegetables and fruits, and exercise regularly.

Learn more about Skin Health here.